Circle--Subjects and Requirements
Group 1: Language A1
Group 1 consists of literature courses in a student’s first language. The courses introduce students to literature from a variety of periods, genres, and styles. Students refine their skills in writing, speaking, and analysis, and learn techniques of literary criticism.
Group 2: Second Language
The acquisition of a second language carries great importance in the IB Diploma Program. Students learn to understand and use the language and gain insights into the cultures of the countries where the language is spoken.
Group 3: Individuals and Societies
This group includes courses in history and the social sciences. By studying human experience and behavior, as well as economic and social environments and institutions, students gain an appreciation of diverse perspective and values. They learn to analyze concepts and theories, and to use quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection and analysis.
Group 4: Experimental Sciences
In the science courses students become familiar with the body of knowledge, methods, and techniques that characterize science and technology. The also learn practical laboratory skills.
Group 5: Mathematics
This group includes courses designed for a range of abilities and interests. Some are aimed at students who wish to study mathematics in depth, while others are for those who need mathematics to enhance their understanding of other subjects. The courses provide students with mathematical knowledge and principles, and they help students to develop logical and creative mathematical thinking and to use abstraction and generalization to reach conclusions.
Group 6: The Arts
The emphasis of the arts courses is making art. Students gain an understanding of the arts and learn to express themselves artistically by creating, producing, or performing, works of art. In addition, they explore art forms from cultures throughout the world.
*Three courses may be taken at a standard level requiring one-year of study,
and three must be taken at a higher level requiring two years of study.
Students study six courses selected from six subject groups. In addition, students must fulfill three core requirements.
Theory of Knowledge
One of the most important components of the Diploma Program is the Theory of Knowledge course, which challenges students to question the bases of knowledge – to reflect critically on how they know what they believe to be facts or the truth. It consists almost entirely of exploring questions about different sources of knowledge (perception, language, emotion, reason) and different kinds of knowledge (scientific, artistic, mathematical, historical).
Creativity, Action, Service
To fulfill this requirement, students must take part in artistic activities (creativity); sports, expeditions, or local or international projects (action); or community or social service projects (service). Participation in CAS raises students’ awareness of community needs and gives them an opportunity to apply what they have learned in the classroom to address those needs. It also give them confidence in their ability to bring about change. The projects must have tangible results and offer real benefit to others.
The Extended Essay
An extended essay of 4,000 words offers students an opportunity to conduct an in-depth study of a topic of special interest. The experience and skills gained in carrying out independent research and producing a structured, substantial piece of writing, provide excellent preparation for research at the university level.
Essay Extended Packet